Archive of Our Own

Scar felt annoyance leak in as he schooled his features to his father's rambles. The King has decided indeed, as he just nodded. "we are to accomodate for this," his father spoke calmly while his mother, the Queen, looked off into the distance. No help at all for her son and his future. "The Mother Spore is to come here soon, and while contact will be limited between you two, we do expect soon for marriage to be possible." his father said firmly.

Scar nodded to that, "I understand Father." he said shortly, to the point, just like he was supposed to. Inside he was seething, 'for the good of the kingdom', what a joke really. His father was just saving his own ass from this new threat of the Fae creatures nearby.

Mother Spore as they were named was a fae being that has been causing issues in other kingdoms. He has taken over areas overnight, leaving mushrooms and other plants to grow behind him and an army of brainwashed beings they called 'Sporelings'. Annoyance leaked into his mind again, and Scar, Prince of this land, was to be married off to the Mother Spore in an attempt by this kingdom and others to pacify the mushroom creature. 

Foolish is what Scar thought it was as if some marriage to a mere prince was enough. If anything, he was a lamb to be sacrificed in the hopes it appeased the gods. Only this time the blood to be spilled was possibly his own. Thus Scar's future was in the hands of the cruel mistress known as Fate. He was going to be meeting this Mother Spore, in the hopes that they could form a bond. Perhaps they would 'fall in love' as his father seemed to be hinting.

Or at least something akin to that thought process. Maybe they thought if Scar wooed him, he might be able to convince the fae being to not corrupt kingdoms and take over with his spores. Scar was not keen on that idea at all, getting close to a being that could mess with his head. Honestly, the thought terrified him. 
He laid back on his bed with a sigh as Cub smiled at him, "It can't all be that bad your highness." he said calmly picking up the books and such for Scar to put away. Any and all things on fae, that yielded nothing that he didn't already know. "We only know what is told to us, perhaps you might be able to see something else?" 

Optimistic as it sounded, Scar wasn't so sure as he huffed. "Cub, the options are either to become a mushroom slave or die by this point. Because if this Mother Spore doesn't like me, he'd no doubt kill me without thought." he grimaced, the thought of dying and being mushroom food wasn't pretty, but the other option made his stomach churn in fear.

"Then perhaps you need to work to make sure neither happens? give him a chance. You won't be around him all the time for much to happen, most will be through us servants sending letters." Cub said, and that worried Scar more, the idea Cub could be corrupted instead. He didn't want his servant, his friend, to be subjected to that. 

Worry must have shown as Cub smiled again, "It'll be alright Scar, we'll get by." he promised, with cold comfort as Scar laid back down again looking at the canopy above his bed. 

He couldn't imagine this Mother Spore was looking forward to this either... so guess that's one thing they can agree on for now. Though, part of him did wonder what the other might look like, act like for that matter. Bitterness grew against his father as he thought about this.

An arranged marriage with a fae! Scar lay on his side trying to get some rest, ignoring the dread that was trying to settle in his stomach. Tomorrow would be the meeting day, to make an impression and put on a show in front of people... then the process of 'getting to know' each other. Ug, part of him was now hoping Mother Spore would just take over the kingdom instead.

With these thoughts, Scar drifted into a fitful sleep that was luckily dreamless. Or maybe he did dream, of a male with a large mushroom hat on and beautiful purple wings. 
But upon waking, Scar didn't remember the dream at all or even if he had one. And waking up was also met with Cub putting out an outfit for him, "Purple?" Scar asked groggily looking at the purple vest.
"Fae love the color purple." Cub said to him with a smile, "Don't worry it's just the vest, everything else is comfortable." a teasing promise as Scar huffed at that looking at Cub with a playful glare. The other knew he dressed for comfort, not for style. The style was always puffy and stuffy clothing that made him near have a heat stroke.

Things is father made him wear to show off his muscles to potential wives. Honestly, it was shocking he was agreeing to let him marry a male fae to be with. But... fae also didn't have concepts of gender that humans did.

Oh gods, would Scar end up the pregnant one if they ever did have kids? A flush was on his face at the thought of that happening. Was it even possible!?
"You alright Scar?" Cub's voice snapped Scar out of their thoughts, as he gave a high-pitched laugh saying he was fine. His servant gave a skeptical look but decided to not push it. Ignoring the red face and red-tipped ears on the prince.

The outfit was at least manageable, in other words, Scar would breathe without feeling like he was constricted. his hair was made to fluff up and frame around his jaw, and the crown on his head was the last part. Turning to see himself in the mirror he made a face, which caused Cub to start laughing.
"You look like your reflection spat on you," Cub said through snorts and giggles. 

Scar wrinkled his nose, "It did!" he whined out, "Cub I look like a pinned-up peacock! Why does it have so many layers!?" he complained, though comfortable it was still hot as can be. 

"It's just for the initial meeting your highness," Cub promised him with a teasing tone. Scar just grumbled finishing with the buttons and adjusting the crown on his head. Every inch of him looked like royalty, the crown prince he was, even if to him it was a fancy title while his father did all of the work. Princes were often expected to be doing other things, most of them involved fun and play rather than ruling. Scar had few classes a day to truly learn things about the ruling. Often he wondered if his father wanted him to be king or kept him around for the show. 

Being royalty was something Scar didn't feel lucky to be born into on days like this. It was a life spent idling wondering if someone was going kill you. Looking at contracts of marriage and wondering which one would be the best for the kingdom. And knowing he'd have to sire a Prince of his own once the crown was on his head. 

Scar would rather spend his days learning if he could, but the teachers didn't like giving extra classes. Telling him after lessons to go hunting with friends or horse riding in general. To just 'act princely' whatever that was supposed to mean. 

Walking down the hall with Cub, Scar kept his head high but his eyes were cast to the floor. Dread knotted his stomach over and over, walking to meet the being he was to be married off to. The same that was responsible for the deaths of many kingdoms and kings being turned into shells of their former selves. Not that Scar cared about what happened to them, just that it did happen. The dread knotted again, what would that be like? To be controlled? Turned into something you are not? Are you aware of it? Would you be aware after? Was your mind even your own?

Fae were quite scary creatures, and Scar wasn't sure what being wed to one would mean for him. He's read stories of course, but... the real thing was baring its teeth down on him. There was no escape as he stood in front of the doors to the throne room.

He took a deep breath and felt a hand on his shoulder as he looked over at Cub who smiled encouragingly at him. Scar gave a weary smile back, and walked into the room to stride with a purpose to where his parents sat. They would be here waiting for this Mother Spore to show up... which would be soon from the chatter of the guards. 

Scar tried not the fidget in place after he stood next to his dad. Sitting was unbecoming when presenting one's self to their future lover, or something like that. It was just words to him, he knew his father didn't see him as a 'Prince' he wanted, and frankly, Scar didn't see him as a 'King' so the feeling of mutual. His mother seemed to be off in her own world, as usual.

No doubt she's been drinking again, off to see more lovers, one night stands after she had him. Scar tried not to look at her, and instead think in his own world. He had heard about the marketplace wanting a new setup, to open things up more. Open roads for trade in the marketplace might things easier, and would help to bring in more to the kingdom. the buildings needed an overhaul, they were just so simple, hard to tell one apart from the other. 

His mind wandered to build plans, and how he'd fix up the streets if he ever could. Only to jolt as the doors did open and the announcement was made of the Fae's entrance. He stood up straight again and tried to look presentable as he watched them walk in.

It was 3 people, one had flowers growing out of his head, a rather nice outfit on, and a very bushy mustache. The other had a flowing dress that looked like the night sky itself. They both were smiling, but Scar felt unease at the sight of the smiles. They didn't look at all warm or inviting, more like sharp, feral, and dangerous. 

Then his eyes landed on the person in the middle and stared at them. They had on a large mushroom hat, moss hung down from it on the edges, creating a natural looking lacey pattern. Their outfit was simple, and not at all loud, but their wings said all of their statuses. They were huge, rather beautiful shades of purple with mushrooms on their joints of them. Shrooms even grew on the shoulders and arms of the being. There was this faint sight of purple mist, it wasn't thick, but faintly noticeable, around this person.

No doubt Scar knew who this was, and he also noticed their eyes landed on him. Green eyes met the brownish shades of purple, both regarding each other. Scar had a neutral expression, as did Mother Spore, just opting to look over each other. 

They were... shorter than Scar expected, and he was fairly taller. The spore fae was also rather petite from his observations, compared to his muscles from doing so much archery. This was not at all what he was expecting. Soon their eye contact was broken as Mother Spore looked over at his father.

"Pleasure to meet you King Dorian." the voice was male-sounding, but Scar also remembered Fae did not have common concepts of gender like they did. Though Mother Spore seemed to go by 'He' and 'They' often enough from words of mouth.

His father nodded to that, "And to you, as you have already seen my son, Prince Darius." he looked over to Scar, a sharp look in his eyes. Scar tried not to scowl at the use of his birth name, but did bow lightly without breaking eye contact. He got a small one back from the fae.

Just now did Scar notice how... uncanny the other did look. The face was framed by curly brown locks, but the neck seemed longer than it should be, thinner, with a face that was as pale a porcelain glass. His father went back to talking about how he hoped they did get along.

"Yes, I hope so as well." Mother Spore said calmly, a sharper end to it, and Scar knew what it meant. The sake of this kingdom and the war was on whether or not they got along, his life, his freedom, at that. No pressure or anything. 

Contact was going to be limited between them, his father was no fool about how... infectious this Mother Spore could be. Drilling it into Scar's head during the meeting that he was not to allow contact without being able to wash his hands just right after. They were not to be alone, and letters were about the only way to talk when not in the same room as many people, and all eyes on them. 

They would be at opposite ends of the castle, Mother Spore getting a view of the castle gardens. And talks were formal, such as the one tonight. A small 'party' which was just the nobles, trying to make nice to it all. The two who came with the Mother were named Mumbo and Pearl, and they seemed... pleasant enough, making idle chat with others and fake laughter that sounded like bells. 

Scar looked over at the Mother Spore calmly, "not one for parties?" he asked in a formal tone, as he did note that they opted instead to watch the other two fae.

A faint hum, "Seems rather extra, wouldn't you say Prince Darius?" the purplish-brown eyes didn't even gaze at him. Scar cringed at the formal use of his name.

Shifting on his feet Scar messed with his glass of wine, "I suppose." he said calmly, looking at the red liquid in thought. Parties were never his thing, they were dull, always people looking for the smallest amount of gossip. Wolves looking to pounce on the smallest instant of weakness to devour for their starved depravity. 

A faint hum drew his mind back to Mother Spore, they were looking at him now. "I am curious about you." the eyes were sharp, gazing at Scar steady and unblinking. Scar stared back and gave a nod, "What are your thoughts on this arranged marriage? Surely it's more than just for power purposes." 

The dilatation of the pupil made Scar think for a second, lying to a fae was never wise. He sighed, "It has to do with the war you are waging, they think this will help keep the kingdom safe." he said honestly, not meeting Mother Spore's gaze.

A pause as the Fae didn't even breathe, then hummed faintly, "I appreciate the honesty." they said to him, and Scar felt some tensions fade at how sincere their tone sounded. They were quiet again looking out at the party and the background noise of people just talking. 

The first meeting, was awkward as Scar expected.

What was even more awkward was the days to follow after. Scar was to have very little contact with Mother Spore. So all contact was kept to parchments of paper that he had no doubt his father was reading thoroughly. And they were as boring as boring could get. Stiff, formal, and read like how his professors talked, monotoned that is. Scar found it took the whole day for him to even read through one without losing focus of the words on the yellow parchment. 

'Prince Darius,
I find myself wondering some days about you. Do you have any hobbies or such? The servants only know so much, you seem like an enigma. Perhaps I should start? I am quite fond of nature, as one who guesses of a Fae. Flowers are quite nice, did you know are some mushrooms that can flower? Perhaps I can give you them some time...'

Scar groaned as he rubbed his eyes, he was lost in place again trying to read all that. Nature, yeah duh Fae like nature, what Fae didn't? Mother Spore didn't seem keen on details for anything, asking simple questions. Favorite things to do, opinions on different plants, and even asked about studies he was doing. 
Cub gave him something to drink with a smile as Scar planted his face into the desk. "They seem quite boring," he commented casually as Scar grunted in agreement. 

"Boring doesn't begin to describe them." Scar huffed with a scowl at the wall like it personally slighted him. "There is just no emotion or anything I can pick up from the letter. But, I guess I don't blame him, my father is no doubt reading them to anything to use... Ug... Nosey bastard." he growled the last part as Cub gave him a sad smile, understanding.

Who didn't understand really? His father was not a kind man to anyone. Known to yell at servants for the smallest offense. His father only ever showed up long enough for lessons, then to tell him to 'go play' or whatever. His mother breastfed him until he could be fed by himself without her, then she never touched him again. His father was also known to put horrible restrictions on hybrids and any none human creature out there. Something Scar wanted to change as kingdom... and may never get the chance to. 

Messing with the quill Scar sighed heavily and wrote back to Mother Spore.

'Mother Spore,
Hobbies are a loose term for me, but I am very fond of knightship. Fighting and clashing of swords is quite interesting and gives one a sharper mind. I did not know that about mushrooms, an interesting fact you know. I'd love to hear more from you...'

Scar was in pain, metaphorically. Writing these letters to his father's approval standers, and lying on paper for the sake of not getting another scolding. He was to endear himself to his future husband. And all Scar wanted to do was hide away from the world and maybe plan his father's untimely death... he wondered if Cub would help him with that? 

'Prince Darius,
You seem like the type with the muscles I saw on you. Judging by your scars you possibly have seen many battles. They tell a quant story about you, one I would like to hear. I could tell you all day about facts. Some can create their own wind you know to carry away their spores. Something I find I myself can do...'

Scar huffed as he lay on his bed, tossing up an apple in the air and catching it. The letter written out beside him, he watched the apple against the dark canopy as Cub was cleaning the room around him. Which wasn't much, Scar kept things tidy... at least the floor don't ask him about the draws to his desk and chest. 
"A reply that has no merit than the last," Scar grumbled a bit rolling over on his stomach as Cub just hummed. offering no response, not that Scar wanted one. He hated this so much.

Meeting with Mumbo had been interesting, the Flower Fae as he called himself. He was pleasant to speak to, out in the gardens as the two of them talked, Pearl also joined them. Scar learned that she was Mother Spores's sister. She was a Fae of the Sky. And had beautiful wings on her back as well, they were see-through almost save for the glittery effect they gave in the sunlight.

"Oh, my brother seems interested in your letters." Pearl said cheerfully to him, "He likes to watch you when you come out here to walk around."

So Mother Spore had been watching him? Scar did come here from time to time to practice archery on the trees. That was how Mumbo came to meet him as he hit the target and the flower fae praised him for his good aim.

"Indeed, he wanted me to talk in his steed due to the contact restrictions," Mumbo said as Scar cringed a bit at that. 

Pearl watched him with sharp eyes the whole time they talked. Scar was getting heavily protective vibes, she would laugh, but there was no warmth to it. Mumbo was very formal spoken and lead most of the conversation.

.... Scar was terrified of them. 

'Prince Darius, 
Mumbo told me you seem to like archery, i've watched you for a while now from my window. You have great aim. Care to tell me more about your skills? And I am sorry for my sister, she is very protective...'

Scar tossed the letter aside with a huff as Cub frowned at him picking it up. "not what you like?" he asked worriedly to Scar placing it on the desk.

"He lies so easily in the letters, and I hate it." not like he was any better, they both were lying to each other. It left a bitter taste in Scar's mouth as he hugged his knees to his chest. They were getting nowhere, learning nothing which the half-truths and dull lies they spoke to each other. Nothing was working, and Scar was ready to give up and just hope he died a painless death.

Cub frowned a bit, "I'm sorry Scar." he said to him, going back to dusting, "Seems the only way you are going to know anything is to talk to them. And that isn't much of an option."

Yeah, the only way he was going to know anything was... Scar looked up at that, to talk to him face to face without his father there to restrict his words. He got up, "Cub, don't wait up for me!" he said putting pillows under the covers to make it look like a person.

Cub stared at that as Scar headed out the window, "Oh... okay." was all he could say, "Stay safe!" he called out as Scar climbed down the wall like he used to do as a kid. 

Mother Spore's balcony was in sight as Scar gripped the ivy, still strong as ever, which was good because the roots were pretty much in the stone walls. He started to climb and grunted a bit as he was getting scratched up. "ow..." he hissed a bit as his arms scraped the wall, the gardens were silent save for the sounds of crickets and frogs. It was dark too, but scar managed to find his way.

He grunted a bit gripping the stone with his fingers, and peered over the ledge, yelping as he was face to face with someone. And near fell if a hand didn't grab his. "What are you doing here?" Scar looked back over as he was gripping the wrist of Mother Spore. "Did you climb!?" he asked in shock helping Scar steady himself again on the vines.

He gave a tired grin, the best plan ever in his opinion. "Yeah I did." he breathed out a laugh. "I wanted to see you, without our very dull letters," he said a bit out of breath from climbing.
Mother Spore looked offended, "My letters weren't that dull... Were they?" he asked at the end with a curious look.

Scar laughed again, "Kind of yeah, but mine were too so it's fine..." he gripped the vines again, "Can you hold pull me in please?" he looked sheepish up at the fae.
A pause then a huff as the other helped yank him onto the balcony, Scar landed on the ground with a painful grunt, "Are you alright?" Mother Spore asked him with a tone that sounded like worry.

"Yeah." Scar said getting up, and dusting off the leaves and dirt. "I used to climb up all the time these walls as a kid.. though I had more energy back then." he joked looking at the scars and cuts on his arms.

A deadpanned look, "I'm on the third floor." the fae said blandly as Scar just grinned at them as the only response. They rolled their eyes, "Any reason you came to expose yourself to my spores in the dead of night?" a cross of the arms with a hard look.

Scar shrugged slightly, "As I said, I wanted to talk, face to face. Without our letters being filtered through people... I feel like I don't know you, and I want to know you." he sat on the edge of the rail with a smile. 
A look of surprise on the fae's face and gave a look, of curiosity and confusion. "Prince Darius-"

"Scar."

Mother Spore looked at him at that as Scar smiled, "Prince Darius is too formal, I don't like the name. Scar is my nickname that people call me in private. So, please, call me Scar."

Silent regard of interest, purple eyes looking him up and down then nodding. "Scar." he corrected, "Well, it's a pleasure then." there was a faint smile on the pale purple lips, moving back the moss on the mushroom cap. "You may call me Grian in private, a name I use when meeting people."

Scar smiled faintly, "Grian." he repeated back, finding the name was nice, simple, and less of a mouthful too. "Pleasure to meet you too," he said back in a soft tone. 

The smile turned to a grin, "Well Grian, I'm sure we both have questions, and now we can tell each other the truth." he said proudly, as Grian snorted some laughter at that.

"Was it obvious I was lying in my letters than Scar?" he asked curiously, an eye brown raised as Scar just gave a knowing smile. Amusement danced in the eyes for a moment, though Grian seemed still guarded of him. "Alright then, since you came all this way. I'll start, only polite isn't it?"

A happy nod as Scar looked excited about this, "Are you really into Knightship?" Grian asked sitting on the other side of the stone railing. 

"No." Scar admits, "My father wishes I was, but I prefer archery, and I love to study buildings." he said honestly.

Surprised, and a faint hum. "I saw you doing the archery in the gardens... You really are good at it, I meant that." Grian tells him, and Scar finds he can't stop smiling now.
"Well thanks for that, I do enjoy it when people watch me, suppose I can be a show-off." he rubbed his cheek with his finger and a small flush on them. "How about you? Do you really like flowers?" he asked back.
Grian shrugged faintly at that, "Some yes, my favorite flowers are cacti ones." they say with a faraway look. "They are hard to come by, don't last more than a day or so, but big and beautiful."

"I didn't know Cactuses could grow flowers." he really didn't know that, and that was interesting to think about.
Grian nodded, the faint smile there on their face, purple eyes looked back at him again. "So you like building then?" 

Scar looked excited, eyes lighting up almost, shining green, "Yes, I do. I've drawn up many plans for the marketplace to make it better..." then the smile fell, "but my father won't allow it, a peasants job he says."
The silence hung now in the air, Grian's own smile fell. "Oh." his tone laced with a strange emotion. Another pause between them before Grian broke it again, "Maybe you can show me your plans sometime? I'd love to see them."

Green eyes lit up again, Scar looked surprised. Not many took interest in his work other than Cub. "really?" hopeful and longing. "They are just drawings it all," he said quickly.

"no, I want to see them." Grian said quickly, "I... I like to make things myself, every kingdom I've taken over is well... I've made them look different, mushrooms are hard to work with to make pretty, so it takes alot of thought." 

Scar watched the fae shift, their cheeks a faint purple color for a moment. "I... I could help." he offered to, swallow a bit. 
"What?" confusion on their face now as purple eyes stared at him.

"I could help, draw up some ideas for you to use. Something new, challenging even." Scar told them with a smile forming again. "Something for you to help get an idea of how to draw them."

Another pause as Grian stared at that, shock on the face of the fae who let their arms uncross and grip the balcony. "I... I'd like that Scar." a shy smile at him made Scar's heart flutter for a moment. 
They were nothing like he expected, yet another suprise, Grian seemed soft spoke right now, but there was a hint of something under those eyes. Mischief perhaps? Scar found himself allured by it, wanting to see it more.

The conversation continued on, the two just asking small questions, favorite color, favorite book, flowers? Do you like candy? Foods? Do fae even eat? What is your favorite subject? Do humans experience nature so little? What's the kingdom like? Do you have a favorite place to go to? 

By the end of it, they were laughing at each other, Scar telling some stories of himself. "yeah these scars weren't from a battle at all, I'm just an idiot who liked Arson... and still does." he said through giggles of his own.

"You really thought explosives on an arrow was a good idea?' Grian asked with laughter between words. "Even I know fire isn't for everyone to use."

A casual shrug, "I just added a bit too much the first time, the scars were worth it though. Since then the nickname has stuck with the other knights who watched. I can laugh about it now, in the moment, it was agony." Scar admits looking embarrassed for a moment.

Grian laughed again, showing sharp teeth that were very white. Scar was grinning also at the laughter from him, finding he liked it. It sounded like bells, but in a good way. Soft, chiming and ended in a cackle that felt real to him. 

After a moment to compose himself Grian was smiling at him again, "You best go to bed, it's nearing midnight." he said.

Scar blinked and did notice how tired he felt now that Grian mentioned it. Though a part of him felt sadness in his chest, to know that this night was coming to an end. "Can we do this again? Tomorrow night?" Scar asked him, as Grian smile stayed at that.

"I'd like that." Grian said to him as he walked over to Scar, "Tomorrow then?" they asked blinking as Scar took their hand and kissed the knuckles lightly.

"Tomorrow," Scar promised softly against the cool skin, looking up to see the faint purple on Grian's face again. eyes wide with suprise, but turned softer after a moment and the smile returned. 

Grian watched him climb down the balcony and wave up to him before leaving through the hedge brush. 
Scar laid back down on his bed with a grin on his face, his heart was fluttering in his chest and he felt warmth on his face and the smile wouldn't leave his mouth. Finding himself feeling happy and giddy for tomorrow night, wanting to hear that laughter again, wanting to listen to more stories from the fae. 
The dreams were sweet that night, seeing Grian laughing in front of him, eyes alight with happiness. 

'Prince Darius,
I find you very interesting to talk to. Getting to know you more has helped much with these past few days. I'd love to hear more about you, mind telling me a bit more about yourself, your traits and such? I left a gift in the letter, I hope you like it...'

Scar twirled the purple feather in his hands, a smile on his face as the scent of it was earthy but in a nice way. It was beautiful, dark purple at the end and ending in a light lilac purple at the end. It was soft to the touch, and Scar smiled as he held it in his hand. Talking to Cub about last night with a fond smile.

"It sounds wonderful Scar." Cub chuckled a bit shaking his head. "I'm glad you found a way to talk to them." 
Scar sighed, dreamily and starry-eyed, "It was more than wonderful, it was beautiful Cub. They were so thoughtful in their answers and actually liked my jokes too. twirling the feather again Scar got up putting it on a string to wear around his neck, liking how it looked there. 

"I can't wait for tonight, maybe was can go through the gardens and talk? I want to show him around a bit, I think he'd love the flowers there." Scar said already planning for something tonight, wanting to get Grian out of that stuffy tower, he had to not like it up there as he never seemed to leave. 
Scar wrote back formally as always, but undertones of happiness for once. Enjoying writing it out, the night couldn't come faster.

Climbing once again up to see Grian was waiting for him with a bright smile. Helping him up again as Scar was grinning widely. "Mother Spore." he said in a teasing tone as grian just gave a grin back.
"Prince Darius." Grian said back with a giggle at that, "I've missed you, the night can't come faster." his eyes trailed to the neck and brighten, "You got my gift?" he asked, tone slightly giddy.

Scar looked at the feather and nodded, "It's beautiful, I love it." he tells Grian, and blinked at the strange sound that escaped the other's mouth... a chirp? 
Clearing his throat, Grian gave a shy smile, "I'm glad you like it." they said after looking away the purple flush back.

Scar felt the grin come back on his face, and took Grian's hand, "Care to join me in the gardens? We can talk as I show you around... the center of the maze has a beautiful swing." he offered, feeling the soft fingers on his own calloused ones. 

Looking into those purple eyes, Grian gave a faint nod after a moment of just staring, "Yes... yes I'd love to." the voice was faint, soft, and Scar pulled to help him. The fae luckily was able to make the plants stronger, and seemed very good at climbing. Making it down before Scar did. 

"Impressive!" Scar said cheerfully as Grian just gave a smirking smile.

"I'm more than a pretty face, I used to climb trees as a kid." Grian sounded proud of that as Scar let out a small chuckle eyes shining as he took Grian's hand again and lead him down the path of the maze. 
The moon was full, casting enough light, and the fireflies were out, glowing over the pond they passed by. "It's beautiful," Grian said softly running a hand over the body and watching as mushrooms grew at the edge of it. His eyes shone, "Did you know some glow in the dark?" he asked Scar with the smile turning to a grin. "We have so many mushrooms in my kingdoms that glow in the dark, the light source helps new sporelings to see better so not to hurt their eyes."

Scar looked intrigued by that, looking at the ones that glowed a soft blue at the edge of the pond. "They are beautiful." he agreed as they reflected off the water. "I bet the kingdoms are pretty too with them as lighting."

Grian nodded running his fingers over the tops of their glowing shrooms. "Oh it's amazing, they glow colors of green, blue, and purple. Shining off the moss I grew in the streets, interconnecting everything with roots for easier travel for my sporelings." he explains excitedly.

Scar sat there in the grass listening to Grian ramble on, "You sound like you care deeply." he commented, "For these kingdoms you take over."

Grian paused in talking, and flushed lightly, "Well yes, they are my children now Scar. I bring them into a world where they never feel alone, and connected through the mycelium I create. I want them happy, wouldn't you want your children happy?" he asked in a softer tone than before.

staring at that, Scar nodded, he could understand that, but... He tilted his head looking at Grian, "Why take over human kingdoms then? I... I want to know, stories say you are a tyrant and user, but..." you don't seem that way, Grian was too nice, so caring, the way he spoke of his 'sporelings' he sounded like he cared so much. 

Smooth brows furrowed on the fae's face, looking at the water in thought for a long time. Then a faint hum, "Connection Scar." they said finally, "People, stumble through their days, they don't feel one another other than for a fleeting moment. They are alone, and empty inside." 

Sitting up to look at the moon for a moment, Grian smiled faintly, "I want to help them. I want them happy. For humans and Fae to all feel connected. Fae already does, but mortals, know so little of us. They don't understand, and I want them to... through the mycelium they can Scar, they'll feel each other, and never be alone again."

Eyes find their way to his, shining, hopeful, longing,... scared. "Do you understand?" they asked, the undertones of worry, Scar stared back at the many emotions.

"I..." Scar furrowed his brow, trying to envision what Grian was talking about. He didn't know much about love, he didn't know much about connection. He frowned a bit, "No... I can't..." he saw Grian's smile fall as he continued, "I've never understood love like that Grian."

Looking away, Scar stared at the water, eyes sad and longing, "My mother never hugged or held me after I stopped breastfeeding on her. My father is not a caring man at all. He... the only touches I've had from him sting my face after."

Fingers reach up, as Scar touched his own cheek, his eyes almost stung again at the memory. "My mother shoved me away a lot, it's hard to picture what a nice touch would feel like." he near whispered to the other "She didn't care, she loved the sex more than me, only had me out of obligation."

Scar was silent again, eyes cast down still, his hand lingering on his own cheek, "I'm sorry Grian." he whispers, "but I don't understand, ... I wish I could."

The silence was thick, Scar didn't want to look at Grian to see the sadness on his face that he didn't know, didn't understand, couldn't understand. 
Fingers found his, cool, smooth, soft. Lacing them together and another hand took his chin gently to turn Scar to face Grian. "You don't know love?" Grian asked in a sad tone, eyes hurt and glassy. Scar shook his head mutely, as Grian frowned a bit, "Love is... complicated, it comes in many forms and words and gestures... Kisses are one form."

"Kisses?' Scar echoed to him.

Grian looked at him for a long moment, "Do you... want to try?" they asked, the voice near a whisper, waiting for the okay, wanting to take it in Scar's time.
Swallowing again, Scar nodded faintly as grian's thumb rubbed his cheek, tender and careful over his skin. It was so... nice, Scar's throat closed up at the feeling. Grian leaned forward slowly, they stared for a moment, feeling each other's breath on their faces. Then the gap closed.

The lips on Scar's were... soft, nothing he's felt before. They pressed slow, carefully, feeling the creases in them. Like flower petals on his face. Lasting a few seconds, and making his head spin for a moment. Grian pulled away, looking at him as Scar stared back eyes half-lidded, warmth filled him, he liked the feeling. And he wanted more of it.

Grian stared, their noses touching, a gentle and sweet silence between them. Scar looked into the purple eyes, "Can we do that again?" he asked in a quiet voice, longing. 

The answer came in another kiss, longer, passionate. Grian moved their lips together. They pushed together, Grian's legs coming up, one around Scar's own, the other holding him upright. Scar moved with it, just doing what felt right, slow at first but grew in heat. The sounds of their lips parting from time to time as they kept going.

Scar wasn't sure how long this lasted, but after Grian pulled away, his vision was starry. He gave a doey-eyed smile, and Grian was smiling back as they panted for a moment. Scar grinned faintly, "Love is... very strange." he admits, as Grian giggles in agreement. 

And after a while stand back up to keep walking, Scar feeling warmth in his chest as they walked and just talked of things. Scar told about the gardens a bit and himself, while Grian excitedly shared more plant facts, mostly mushrooms, with him. Scar found himself smiling as he just listened. "It all sounds so wonderful when you talk about it like that." 

Grian shrugged at him running hands over the willow tree branches, Scar watching as they almost seemed to glow brighter green. "You don't seem afraid of it," he commented back, a curious look over their shoulder at Scar.
"I guess," Scar gave a lop-sided smile, "The way you talk about it makes it less scary... I find I agree with alot of what you're saying."

Grian didn't say anything, the smile said it all, happy, content, loving. As they walked back to his room again, the moon was high in the sky again, "I enjoyed tonight." the fae tells him, as they were holding hands still. 
He rubbed his thumb over Grian's own, "I did too." Scar said back, as Grian and he just stared, no words just the calming sounds of the night. Neither wanted to say goodnight to the other, Grian squeezed his hand and Scar squeezed it back. 

Grian leaned closer and kissed him lightly again, "Goodnight Scar." he whispers, Scar's face breaking into a smile.
"Goodnight Grian." he said back watching the spore creature climb back up to his room.
With a kiss to the hand and a wave, Scar left back to his room. His smile never once left, even when he crawled into bed to sleep. He still felt the softness of the other's lips on his own.

Love made his heart flutter, it made his body warm, it made him hum like an idiot in his room. Wondering how Grian was doing, could they dance? Would he dance with him? Wondering if Grian would like a ring? 
Spending the next few nights showing his plans for the market. Chattering together, laughing as they came up with plans together. Grian just chats away about anything that came to mind, and Scar listens with a dopey smile on his face. 

"I wanted you to have this," Grian said one night, the night before the wedding was to happen. Scar looked over curious at that, from where he was drawing their ideas for a marketplace together. 
He turned around and blinked curiously at the object. It looked to be a hat, having a large brim, and a tall head on it. it was soft brown in color with a purple ribbon at the base. Moss grew in patches on it, and mushrooms also of many types all small in size. 

Scar took it in his hands looking it over and feeling the soft material. It was woven by hand no doubt and made his chest feel warm that Grian made this for him. "I love it," he said as Grian watched with a smile as Scar put it on his head.

It was a snug fit, just the right size, and looking in the mirror it looked amazing. Scar smiled at how strange his reflection looked with it on, but the smile paused on his face. Something felt... weird. 
The sensation was on the top of his head, tickling lightly, like someone messing with his hair. Prickling almost like something popping on his head. A wave of calm though came with it, as Grian's hand again found his. fingers lacing together as he looked at the Mother Spore.

Love. Love. Love.

It crashed over Scar's body like warm water for a bath, he stared into the purple eyes as the feelings were strong. They.. were from Grian! Love, affection, want, passion, possessiveness. 
Lips met his again and Scar kissed back easily, finding he knew exactly what Grian wanted of him. Pulling back after a moment as he blinked, "What?" he could only ask.

"You said you wanted to feel what being Connected was like... the hat I made you connects you to me," Grian told him, leaning their head on Scar's chest. Holding his hand and the feelings rushed over Scar, everything Grian felt for him, and Scar found he was returning them. He heard Grian sigh happily against his chest, their emotions tangled together, and Scar closed his eyes to it. 

After a long moment, Scar looked at Grian, "The wedding is tomorrow." and Grian hummed faintly to that, both of them were not sure what they'd do after that.
A pause of silence, the emotions lingering between them, Scar found he liked the feeling. The roots in his head kept the hat snugly in place, connecting him to Grian, letting him feel all of this... But this was only a taste, right? Only a small bit of what it meant to be Connected.

He understood now what Grian meant by 'Empty' before. Scar wanted more, he wanted to feel it all, feel it with Grian, all he felt and more. 
The hand squeezed his own, "Really?' Grian asked back to him, eyes looking up, pleading and lustful. 
Scar squeezed it back, "Really." he smiled at them, longing, wanting, please, he wanted more.
Grian leads him by his hand, over to the bed, pulling Scar to follow. Which he did, no questions asked. Trust. Trust. Trust. 

Lips met his again as they kissed slowly, Grian messing with his nightshirt. Moving it off his shoulders, touching against the skin slowly. Scar shivered, laying back on the bed as Grian was on top of him. "Fae love differently than mortals." they told him in a hushed tone, "You are mine after tonight Scar, you understand this?" he looked firm with those beautiful purple eyes.

"Yes," Scar said back in a surety tone, he wanted to be Grian, he wanted to be his forever. "Make me yours, and you be mine." another kiss at the words, a smile against his lips, bitting at the lower lip now.
A soft moan escaped Scar's mouth as Grian moved down to kiss his neck. The purple mist was coming off Grian now, Scar inhaled it, it make his head spin, his body arched into Grian's hands. 

The emotions from Grian were overwhelming, swirling with his own as Grian moved his hands down. Scar groaned as they palmed him through his pants. Heat rushed through him, keening into the hand as Grian chuckled against his neck.

"Like that?" a teasing tone as Scar whined softly, "Good boy, let me take you in, let the mycelium love you as I love you." a kiss on his forehead as Grian opened his pants, and somehow his clothing just vanished off him.

Scar stared in awe at the other chest and one down as grian snickered kissing him again as he rubbed up against Scar. Etching out moans between kisses, it was hazy, he was rubbed all over. Prepped at one point as fingers stretched him open, making lewd sounds as Grian rubbed his insides.

"You'll be perfect soon Scar, connected and loved..." the purple eyes glowed as slowly Grian pushed inside him, making Scar toss back his head with a moan. Feeling how Grian fit snugly into him, each pulse of the dick inside him. 
"G-Gri-." he stuttered out between moans and mewls as the other thrust into him. Scar kissed Grian again, hand petted his hair, the two were panting, foreheads together, their hats brushing also as their hands linked.

"Our Father Spore." Grian whispered, his voice off, like many overlaying it. Groaning as they kept going, Scar's own cock bounced a bit with each thrust.
So many emotions, so much to take in, the room was covered in purple spores as Scar breathed them in. The earthy scent that he liked about Grian filled his lungs. Then Grian grunted and pushed up as Scar also felt his breath hitch.
Warmth was on their stomach as Scar came, the ball of heat inside him uncoiling. And warmth was also inside him as Grian was taking deep breaths. 

Father. Father. Father.

Scar took deep breaths with Grian looking into his mate's eyes, kissing his head lightly as Grian smiled. The passion was still high between them though, even as Scar felt the threads link through his system. Another deep breath of purple spores and he smiled again. "I can go all night," he told his lover, his Mother Spore.
The eyes lit up again, as Grian looked eager. "So could I." they agreed and shifted a bit making Scar groan. 
The maids would hate them in the morning.

Scar was grinning at Cub as he adjusted the outfit, "I look forward to today." he tells him, and he senses Cub. He never would have guessed the other was part of the hivemind. But it explains alot of how Grian knew about him and his father. 
Cub grinned at him, "We all are." he said dusting off Scar's shoulders, "I'm happy for you both, Grian deserves someone who will love them for them." 

Warmth filled him, he could feel Grian's love, he could feel Mumbo's approval, and Pearl's giddy excitement. It was amazing, he could feel them all, who they were, and what they felt for him. Love. This was love, and Scar could say he was addicted to it already. 
"Tonight the kingdom is ours, Father," Cub smirked up at him as Scar agreed. Tonight, he and Grian would bond, and tonight, his father would die. Excitement, Pearl was giggling in his head. Kill them. You deserve more than them. 

And he did, Scar truly believed that as he walked to the throne room for the party, to wait for his lover at the top of the stairs. He held back a smirk, watching the people below, the empty ones, some would be spared, others would not. No filth would taint their sporelings. Grian was giggling in his head, which made Scar smile more.

After a while, he turned and smiled at the radiant creature coming to him. "My love." he breathed out holding his hand, as Grian took it. "You are so beautiful."
A smile, love, love, love, "I am beautiful? you are more so than me, my handsome Daddy." he teased, making Scar blush green around his cheeks, something glamor couldn't hide. 

Looping his arm around Scar's own, and a kiss on the cheek, "Tonight my handsome, tonight is our night." the eyes glowed, and Scar was grinning along with Grian. 
"Anything for you my pretty bird," he whispered back as they walked down together eyes watching them. Both smiling, walking together arm and arm. Across the floor and up to the King and Queen. Cold eyes looked at Scar, looking them both over and judging them. Scar just smiled with a bow.

"Father." He said in a calm tone, "As promised, a marriage." Scar smiled at Grian who smiled back. His father narrowed his eyes and did not speak for a moment. No doubt the man was trying to find any fault, any reason to scorn his son. Not that Scar cared, as the hand in his own. Feeling Grian in his head, loving him, smiling at him. His feral energy, wanting to devour, to tear, to bring this kingdom into his. Possessive. Scar loved them dearly for it.

"And of the war?" He asked in a gruff tone, eyes gleaming at them.
Scar looked at Grian with a smile, as his lover nodded with a slight incline of the head. Turning back to his father he smirked, "It ends tonight of course," he could feel their hunger, eyes all around, the Fae waiting to devour. His sweet sporelings were hungry, and what kind of Father would he be if he didn't spoil them a bit?
"Good." Short and to the point, Scar nodded in agreement.

Yes, it was very good, so good, Scar felt his grin grow, almost inhuman. This man had hurt him, Grian growled in his head in agreement. They both had hurt him, they both were unworthy, the mycelium didn't want them, it wanted their blood though. 

His eyes grew greening, pupils slitting like a cat. He watched his father gap a bit as his sharp teeth grinned at him, "It ends with your blood to feed my lovely mycelium, father." he spat out the word.
Like ravenous animals, the sporelings descended, people started to scream, and glass shattered. Scar towered over his mother and father who were on their feet. 

Their son stood there, taller than before, he still had muscles, but his waist was a little thing. A lean build really. Ear pointed up, and eyes glowing almost. Mushrooms grew on his shoulders, and he grinned. The wings on his back were boney, and a transparent blue color as they flapped. For show really, Scar felt the tensions fade. Glamor was a pain, no wonder Grian looked tired some day before last night. Hiding this took work.

Beside him, his lover, his beloved Mother Spore. Slightly taller too, shark-like teeth and bright purple eyes with large purple wings that had mushrooms on them as well. Powerful, free, magic tangled the air, they were free, free to do as they wanted. Their Sporelings were hissing, growling, laughing. Such children some were, but Scar felt fondness that he sent out getting a happy feeling in return.

They were terrifying, smelling the fear the King and Queen gave out. His father opened his mouth to yell at him, but a clawed hand gripped his neck harshly, cutting off the rant that the man was no doubt about to do. A rush of power, Scar had the man's life in his hands, he grinned, dark, hungry, this man would die tonight at his feet. 

"You have no power anymore over me King Dorian," Scar growled out, green spores rushing around him. "You will be devoured by my shrooms, to feed the earth and their strength. Best fate I can give for filth like you." the claws dug in drawing blood.

Grian was gripping his mother hard as she was sobbing and crying. Scar felt no remorse for them though, they only cared for themselves, never for him, never for Grian, and never for his sporelings. she watched him be hurt, watched him beg for affection, watched him cry, and always told him to shut up. Shoving him off, and turning her back to him. To go with other lovers, to turn to a bottle, and to only ever give him a contempt scowl. 

Blood was on the ground, and as the screams did die down, there were new connections being made. Some passed out as the mycelium took hold of their bodies, pulling them into the comfort and love of the hivemind.

Scar took a breath looking at the blood of his father on the ground, as the mushrooms grew out of the still-warm body. eating at the skin and decaying it quickly.

Grian touched his cheek looking at the loving purple eyes. "I love you," he told him, though the words need not be said, Scar could feel them.
"I love you too." but it felt nice to say them, felt nice to speak them. Affirmation, a dedication out loud and in their heads, as he took Grian's hand and lead him to the floor. A hand on the waist, on the shoulder, as Grian smiled ever so lovingly up at him.

One two three. They stepped together around the floor, while their children happily fed and watched with smiles.
Mumbo was humming to himself with a fond smile as Pearl was too, watching the two be lost in each other's gaze. Their kingdom would no doubt flourish under them, and expand ever more so.

Green and purple spores filled the room with an earthy scent that was sweet as can be. Scar smiled lovingly as he kiss Grian softly.

He was happy.